
Core Viewpoint - The recent adjustment of deposit rates by major banks indicates a continued trend of lowering interest rates, with significant implications for the banking sector and depositors [1][3][4] Group 1: Deposit Rate Adjustments - Major state-owned banks and some joint-stock banks have lowered their deposit rates, with the most notable changes being a 25 basis point reduction in medium to long-term fixed deposit rates and a drop in the current deposit rate below 0.1% [1][2] - The new rates for major banks include a current deposit rate of 0.05%, and fixed deposit rates for various terms have been adjusted to 0.65% for 3 months, 0.85% for 6 months, 0.95% for 1 year, 1.05% for 2 years, 1.25% for 3 years, and 1.3% for 5 years [1][2] - This marks the seventh time since September 2022 that major banks have proactively lowered their deposit rates, with the last adjustment occurring seven months ago [1][3] Group 2: Impact on Depositors - For a 200,000 yuan deposit over three years, the interest difference due to the recent rate adjustment is 1,500 yuan, while for a 1,000,000 yuan deposit, the difference is 7,500 yuan [2] - The adjustments are expected to lead to a decrease in the overall cost of liabilities for banks, as they continue to focus on reducing deposit rates [2][3] Group 3: Future Expectations - It is anticipated that other joint-stock banks will follow suit in adjusting their deposit rates, although the timing may vary based on internal processes [3] - The space for further adjustments in deposit rates is expected to narrow, particularly as the current deposit rate has reached a historical low of 0.05% [3][4] - The recent adjustments align with the central bank's strategy to guide commercial banks in lowering deposit rates through a self-discipline mechanism [3][4]